FG urged to leverage Islamic art for economic empowerment

The federal government has been urged to harness the economic potential of Islamic calligraphy and other forms of Islamic art to promote economic empowerment for Muslims and Nigerians at large. This call was made by the Chief Imam of Ansar-ud-Deen Mosque in Abuja, Dr Musa Olaofe; prominent lawyer, Prof. Yusuf Olaolu Ali, SAN; and Senator […]

The federal government has been urged to harness the economic potential of Islamic calligraphy and other forms of Islamic art to promote economic empowerment for Muslims and Nigerians at large.

This call was made by the Chief Imam of Ansar-ud-Deen Mosque in Abuja, Dr Musa Olaofe; prominent lawyer, Prof. Yusuf Olaolu Ali, SAN; and Senator Shuaib Salisu, representing Ogun Central, during the three-day Islamic Art Exhibition titled “Alhamdulillah Goma-Goma” (The Art of Appreciation II) in Abuja.

The event was organised by the Halal Art Gallery, led by renowned artist Alhaji Ridwan ADK-Osinowo.

Senator Salisu said the artwork conveyed messages of spirituality, essential truths, and hope for the future.

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“This demonstrates that, despite the current challenges facing the country, we can overcome them,” he said.

Prof. Ali, the event’s chairman, praised the calligraphy and other pieces on display for their inspirational values, noting their potential for generating positive outcomes.

“These works represent Islam’s contribution to human civilization, a contribution we must all remember,” he said.

Dr Olaofe emphasised the importance of the exhibition as an example for others to follow, particularly those who have visited countries like Saudi Arabia and Egypt. “This shows us that we too can create and generate income, encouraging economic productivity,” he said.

Alhaji Ridwan ADK-Osinowo, the exhibition’s host and a graduate of Yaba College of Technology in visual arts, explained that the theme of the event was centred around gratitude, celebrating Allah’s countless blessings on humanity.

“Alhamdulillah Goma-Goma” showcased a curated selection of paintings, mixed media, and intricate woodwork, each piece reflecting a deep connection to Islamic calligraphy, spiritual insight, and cultural heritage.

Osinowo highlighted the unique blend of Arabic calligraphy with modern artistic methods, underscoring creative brilliance and a profound bond with Islamic spirituality.

The diverse materials used in the pieces, including fibreglass, aluminium, acrylic and wood, further cement Osinowo’s reputation as a trailblazer in Arabic calligraphy and a leading innovator in Islamic art.